What Is Fibrositis?
Fibrositis, also known as myofascial pain syndrome or muscular rheumatism, refers to inflammation and pain in the fibrous connective tissues of the body, particularly in muscles, tendons, and ligaments. It often causes muscle stiffness, soreness, and localized areas of tenderness.
Is Fibrositis the Same as Fibromyalgia?
They are closely related and sometimes used interchangeably, but they are not exactly the same. Fibromyalgia involves widespread pain and other symptoms like fatigue and sleep problems, while fibrositis typically affects specific muscle areas and may be more localized.
What Causes Fibrositis?
The exact cause isn’t always clear, but contributing factors may include:
- Muscle overuse or strain
- Injury or trauma
- Stress or tension
- Poor posture
- Sleep disturbances
- Chronic inflammation
- Underlying conditions like arthritis or autoimmune disorders
What Are the Symptoms of Fibrositis?
Common symptoms include:
- Localized muscle pain or tenderness
- Stiffness, especially after rest
- Muscle knots or “trigger points”
- Fatigue or general tiredness
- Sleep disturbances
- Headaches or jaw pain (in some cases)
- Pain that may move or spread over time
Who Is at Risk?
People who may be more prone to fibrositis include:
- Adults over age 30
- Individuals with poor posture or repetitive motion jobs
- Those under chronic stress
- People with other chronic pain disorders
- Sedentary individuals or those with low physical activity
How Is Fibrositis Diagnosed?
Diagnosis is mostly based on:
- Medical history and physical examination
- Identification of trigger points or tender spots
- Ruling out other causes of pain like arthritis, fibromyalgia, or nerve issues
- Sometimes imaging or lab tests to rule out other conditions
How Is Fibrositis Treated?
Treatment focuses on symptom relief and improving muscle function. It may include:
- Physical therapy and stretching exercises
- Anti-inflammatory medications or pain relievers
- Trigger point injections or massage therapy
- Heat or cold therapy
- Stress management techniques
- Gentle, regular exercise like walking or yoga
- Improving sleep quality
Can Fibrositis Be Prevented?
While not always preventable, you can lower the risk by:
- Practicing good posture
- Staying active with regular low-impact exercise
- Managing stress through relaxation techniques
- Avoiding repetitive strain or overuse
- Getting enough quality sleep
When Should I See a Doctor?
Consult a healthcare provider if you have:
- Ongoing muscle pain or stiffness
- Trouble sleeping due to pain
- Fatigue or discomfort that affects daily life
- Pain that doesn’t improve with rest or over-the-counter medications